Flexural testing is the most common method used to measure the uniaxial tensile strength of ceramics and glasses. Although standard test methods have been developed for rectangular specimens, cylindrical rod specimens may be preferred in many cases. This paper summarizes how rods have been tested in the past, identifies key experimental errors and remedies, and serves as the foundation for a new standard test method for ceramics and glasses.

Author Information:

Quinn, George D.National Institute of Standards and Technology, Gaithersburg, MD